How can higher education extend beyond the classroom and textbooks to engage with society? On July 2, Yunlin provided a compelling example through a unique event that brought together local communities and international perspectives.
Hosted by the Yunlin County Government, the 2026 "Integrity in Yunlin, Leading the Future" International Bilingual Forum was held at the Grand Ballroom of Sun Hao International Hotel on July 2. The annual forum brought together representatives from government, industry, and academia to discuss key topics including transparent governance, land administration services, and public-sector integrity. Among the participants was a diverse group of international students from the National Yunlin University of Science and Technology (YunTech). Led by the University's Office of International Affairs, the students attended the forum to gain first-hand insight into how Taiwan's local governments integrate integrity and sustainability into everyday governance from an international perspective.
The full-day bilingual forum featured an impressive lineup of speakers. In the morning, Yi-Chang Yeh, Executive Director of the Taiwan Transparency Organization, led discussions on transparent and equitable land administration services. In the afternoon, the forum shifted its focus to sustainability in a changing environmental landscape. Distinguished local entrepreneurs, including Ying-Hao Chen, Chairman of Tuku Cocoa Manor, and Ying-Ti Tsai, Founder of SingTiange Agriculture, shared their experiences and exchanged perspectives on agricultural innovation and sustainable business practices. Their presentations transformed the concepts of integrity and good governance into practical stories rooted in local industry.
"Language is more than a tool for translation—it is a bridge," remarked Professor Yeh Hui-Chin, Vice President for International Affairs at YunTech, during her opening address. She emphasized that this bridge enables international students to gain a deeper understanding of Taiwan's society and local development while also providing Yunlin with a valuable opportunity to hear diverse perspectives from people of different cultural backgrounds around the world.
Professor Yeh Hui-Chin also lightened the atmosphere by reassuring the international students, "Don't worry—there won't be an exam after today's forum!" Her remark drew laughter from the audience. She expressed her hope that every participant would leave with at least one new perspective, one meaningful question, or even a new friendship formed in Taiwan, noting that these experiences represent the true value of higher education beyond the classroom.
The Yunlin County Government also expressed its appreciation for the participation of the international students. The organizers noted that they are pleased to see universities encouraging international students to engage with local communities beyond campus. Through close collaboration between local government and higher education institutions, such initiatives not only enhance Yunlin's international visibility but also create new opportunities for diverse partnerships with a global outlook.
According to YunTech's Office of International Affairs, the University has long been committed not only to supporting the academic success of its international students but also to encouraging their participation in local activities, industry visits, and cultural exchange programs. Looking ahead, YunTech will continue working closely with local governments and partner organizations to help more international students experience Yunlin and better understand Taiwan, fostering greater international engagement while contributing fresh perspectives and youthful energy to Yunlin's sustainable and globally connected future.
Yunlin County Magistrate Chang Li-Shan and distinguished guests pose for a group photo.
Professor Yeh Hui-Chin, Vice President for International Affairs at YunTech, delivers the opening remarks.
Fifteen international master's and doctoral students from YunTech participate in the forum.
Panel discussion during the bilingual forum.
Venue of the 2026 "Integrity in Yunlin, Leading the Future" International Bilingual Forum.
※The above is an AI-generated translation and may not be 100% accurate. For reference only — please double-check any important details.
